I research wildlife populations and communities in complicated environments using carefully designed field studies. I am motivated by applied research questions, though my research findings often have broad theoretical implications. My work has mainly focused on mammals and occasionally birds and reptiles to date. The central themes of my research can be described as:

Understanding species distributions

I am interested in explaining why we find populations where we do. My research has focused on abiotic (non-living) and biotic (living) factors that influence species distributions in relatively untouched landscapes, including factors such as water quality and the activity of sympatric ecosystem engineers or local food availability. In areas where species coexist with larger densities of humans and livestock, I also assess social factors that may affect species distributions and conservation (see “Evaluating the social dimensions of wildlife conservation”).

Determining food web relationships

Proper nutrition is necessary for growth, survival, reproduction, and immunity to disease. Much of my community ecology work has focused on dietary niche overlap and differentiation. I am interested in how diets differ between species and also how they vary at the population- and individual-level, and the associated effects on wildlife management and conservation. I am currently exploring how diet may relate to pathogen loads and immunity in bats, and associated risks of zoonotic spillover events.

Assessing population viability and conservation needs

Extinction risk assessment is an important tool that informs and catalyzes action for biodiversity conservation and policy change. Using demographic (age at first reproduction, litter size, interbirth interval) and age-frequency data, I analyze population viability and trajectories using derivations from stage-structured Lefkovitch matrices. These results can allow for a more quantitative comparison and prioritization of management needs.

Addressing gaps in natural history

Many aspects of basic biology remain unknown for less charismatic or nocturnal species. My research on understudied bat communities, including documenting ectoparasite communities, reproductive periods, and activity patterns for bats of the northern Namib and Chihuahuan deserts, aims to address some of these important gaps in natural history to increase our understanding of the ecology and behaviors of these species. 

Evaluating the social dimensions of
​wildlife conservation

Wildlife conservation is as much about people as it is about species or ecosystems, so my research includes human dimensions where possible. By understanding human values and attitudes toward wildlife as well as the frequency and types of interactions with varying species, I try to highlight conservation challenges and opportunities. I am also interested in cultural stories about wildlife as these may influence future conservation attitudes and behaviors.

Supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion
​in ecology and conservation

A diverse and inclusive scientific community is more productive, innovative, impactful, and just. Through targeted research, I seek to quantify differences in behaviors that affect diversity, equity, and inclusion to expand opportunities and dismantle barriers for people from diverse and marginalized backgrounds to engage in science. Within ecology and evolutionary biology programs, my colleagues and I have highlighted the disproportional role that underrepresented faculty play in advancing diversity and inclusion, and the varying effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on demographic groups within faculty.
Get in touch:  tlaverty [AT] uchicago.edu
​Follow me on Twitter: @theresalaverty